Being content with what we have is a key Stoic virtue from "summary" of Stoicism and the Art of Happiness by Donald Robertson
The Stoics believed that one of the key virtues to cultivate in order to lead a good and fulfilling life is contentment. This virtue entails being satisfied with what we have and not constantly desiring more. The Stoics argued that true happiness does not come from external possessions or achievements, but from within ourselves. By learning to be content with the present moment and what we already possess, we can free ourselves from the endless cycle of desire and dissatisfaction.
Contentment is closely related to the Stoic principle of living in accordance with nature. The Stoics believed that nature provides us with everything we truly need, and that we should accept what comes our way with gratitude and equanimity. In practicing contentment, we learn to appreciate the simple pleasures of life and not to be swayed by external circumstances. This does not mean that we should not strive for improvement or success, but rather that we should not base our happiness on achieving certain goals or acquiring specific possessions.
By cultivating contentment, we can learn to find joy and fulfillment in the present moment, rather than constantly looking to the future for happiness. This does not mean that we should become complacent or stop striving for personal growth, but rather that we should learn to be at peace with what we have and where we are in life. Contentment allows us to experience a sense of inner peace and tranquility, even in the face of difficulties or setbacks.
In a world that constantly bombards us with messages of dissatisfaction and unfulfilled desires, practicing contentment can be a radical act of self-care. By learning to be happy with what we already have, we can free ourselves from the grip of consumerism and materialism. Contentment is a key Stoic virtue that can bring us closer to a life of wisdom, virtue, and true happiness.
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